The self-diagnosis system of the washing machine is able to detect a malfunction and display its code on the scoreboard. If your LG washing machine stops while washing, and then the display shows the error code PF, this is a signal of unstable mains voltage.
Moreover, an error can appear in any washing mode. What the user should do in these cases, read below.
Causes of the error
To figure out how to fix the problem, you need to find out the causes of the fault code.
- A one-time power outage can cause a PF error.
- Sudden voltage drops when it drops by 10% and rises by 5%.
- Turning on a powerful device (tool, device) that causes a power surge on the line.
If the PF error code in the LG washing machine lights up once, then no action is required on your part. But if the system regularly gives an error, do not hesitate to repair. Electrical problems can lead to shorted wiring.
Let’s figure out how you can fix the problem yourself.
Solutions to the problem
Before disassembling the LG washer, try simpler methods for resetting the PF error. What does it mean:
- When there is a temporary power outage, you only need to press the On/Off button. This is enough to run the program.
- Check the power cord and CM LG plug. Perhaps the insulation was broken, the wire was damaged. Then you can either localize the damaged area, or change the cord and plug.
- If the washer is connected through an adapter, this can also cause the code to appear. Remember, the LG washing machine (Lji) should only be connected to a separate power line with a machine.
- Check mains voltage. Maybe it’s not enough to power the machine. Then you should call an electrician.
- Possibly broken wiring between noise filter and electronic controller. Inspect this area, replace damaged wires.
The most reliable means to protect equipment from power surges is to connect through a stabilizer.
Please note that a short circuit can render the equipment unusable, moreover, it can cause a fire. Therefore, you should not let things go by themselves.
Independent repair
Another, more serious reason for the appearance of the PF code is the breakdown of parts inside the LG machine. Since this damage is not easy to fix, you need to be careful.
Failure of the control unit is characterized by stopping the program in the “Washing”, “Rinse”, “Spin” modes and issuing a PF error. You can install a new module yourself, but not everyone can solder the contacts and clean the elements. It might be better to call a specialist.
If you yourself want to solve the problem of replacing the module with LG SM, then:
As already mentioned above, the breakdown may lie in the wiring between the FPS (noise filter) and the module. In this case, the CMA LG freezes, and the PF error burns on any program. Let’s tell you more about how to check it:
- Be sure to de-energize the washer by pulling the plug out of the socket.
- Unscrew the bolts of the CM LG top panel, put it aside.
- The filter is located at the end of the power cord under the rear wall, as shown in the photo:
- Check all connections.
- Wiring performance can be checked with a multimeter.
The last thing to check is the heating element (electric heater). What may indicate problems with the heating element:
- Knocks out automatic transmission.
- Fault code PF is on.
This means a malfunction of the heating element. As a result of the short circuit of the heating element on the body of the washer, the switch in the switchboard is knocked out.
- Remove the rear panel of the CMA.
- The heating element is located below on the left side, as in the photo:
- Disconnect heater and temperature sensor connections.
- Loosen the nut on the central screw and disconnect the ground terminal.
- By pressing, push the bolt inward and pull out the heating element.
- Install the new part in reverse order.
We hope the recommendations helped you remove the error and return the machine to working capacity. Additionally, we recommend watching a video on repairing the control module: